Understanding Polymers: A Quiz

Which of the following is a property of thermoplastics?

• They can be reshaped when heated

• They cannot be recycled

• They are always biodegradable

• They conduct electricity

Which polymer is commonly used to make plastic bottles?

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

• Polystyrene (PS)

• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

What is the main difference between thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers?

• Thermosetting polymers can be melted and reshaped many times

• Thermosetting polymers cannot be reshaped once set

• Thermoplastics are always stronger than thermosets

• Thermosets are always transparent

Which of the following is a typical application of polystyrene?

• Water pipes

• Food packaging and disposable cups

• Electrical insulation for wires

• Bulletproof glass

Which method is commonly used to produce plastic films and carrier bags?

• Injection moulding

• Blow moulding

• Extrusion

• Compression moulding

Which property makes PTFE (Teflon) suitable for non-stick frying pans?

• High electrical conductivity

• High melting point and low friction

• Biodegradability

• Transparency

What is the main raw material used in the production of most synthetic polymers?

• Wood pulp

• Crude oil

• Sand

• Cotton

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using polymers?

• They are lightweight

• They are often non-biodegradable

• They can be coloured easily

• They are corrosion resistant

Which polymer is most suitable for making electrical plug casings due to its insulating properties?

• Polypropylene (PP)

• Polycarbonate (PC)

• Urea formaldehyde

• Polyethylene (PE)

What is the process called where two or more monomers are chemically joined to form a polymer?

• Polymerisation

• Vulcanisation

• Galvanisation

• Crystallisation